KEVAN Broadhurst was today sacked as Walsall manager after just 11 games in charge following the club's relegation to League Two.

Broadhurst, brought to Bescot in February following the departure of Paul Merson, had hoped to remain with the Saddlers beyond the expiry of his current contract in a fort-night's time.

But after Saturday's defeat to Huddersfield, which confirmed Walsall's second relegation in three seasons, he admitted that decision had effectively been taken out of his hands.

It is understood Broadhurst was summoned to Bescot yesterday to hear his fate, and the news was made public this morning.

Current player Mark Kinsella will now take charge for the final two games of the season.

"Kevan's appointment was to the end of the present season, with the proviso that should the Saddlers avoid relegation the arrangement would be extended into the 2006/07 season," read a club statement.

"Saturday's defeat by Huddersfield means Walsall will be playing League Two football next season. The board of directors felt that with relegation confirmed, in fairness to both the club and Kevan, the time was right to terminate the arrangement.

"The directors acknowledge the hard work carried out by Kevan during his time at Walsall Football Club and wish him every success in the future.

"In the short term, Mark Kinsella will be asked to take responsibility for first-team affairs for the final two league games of the season, with Mick Halsall returning to concentrate on the Youth Development Programme at a time when decisions have to be made regarding professional contracts for next season.

"The board of directors will now start the process of making a permanent appointment as manager to prepare for, and lead Walsall into, the 2006/07 season."

Only on Saturday Broadhurst had admitted his devastation at his "worst day in football", though still insisting that there was a "wonderful" rebuilding job on offer at Bescot in the summer.

He had said: "I firmly believe I can organise this club to bounce back but there will be another 100 people out there who think they can do equally well if not better."

Those words have now rung true, with Broadhurst departing with a record of one win, four draws and six defeats from his 11 games.

A run of eight without a win sealed the club's fate, and Kinsella now takes charge for the remaining fixtures with Gillingham and Barnsley.